Gananoque Mayor John Beddows has walked back a controversial budget proposal that would have allowed bylaw officers to clamp the tires of out-of-province vehicles , bowing to mounting pressure from councillors, residents, and tourism advocates.

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The measure, initially introduced as part of a sweeping budget directive under Ontario’s “strong mayor” powers, drew sharp criticism after it surfaced earlier this month. While the idea began with concerns over Quebec-plated vehicles, it quickly snowballed into fears of a tourism backlash.

“I’ve heard that people don’t like the policy,” said Beddows. “Am I willing to change my opinion based on public opinion? Yes I am. This is still a draft. This wasn’t about forcing an outcome. It was about providing a tool.”

The directive

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